Unlock Exceptional Travel Benefits with the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card

Exploring the world of credit cards, especially those that offer travel rewards, can be daunting. However, after years of experience and guidance from experts at The Points Guy, I’ve discovered that the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card stands out as one of the best travel companions in my wallet. If you’re considering a new credit card, now is the perfect time to apply, as the card is currently offering its highest bonus ever.

Here are five compelling reasons why I believe the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card is a must-have for frequent travelers, especially those who fly with Delta.

One of the most appealing features of the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card is the complimentary access to Delta Sky Club lounges and American Express Centurion Lounges when traveling on a same-day Delta-operated or -marketed flight. Before joining TPG, I had never set foot in an airport lounge, but now, I relish the opportunity to unwind in these exclusive spaces before my flights.

Having a quiet area to work or relax during layovers is invaluable. If I arrive at the airport early, I can enjoy a meal or a drink without the exorbitant prices typically found at airport eateries. Additionally, the card grants four one-time Sky Club guest passes each year upon account renewal, allowing me to share this luxury with family or friends when we travel together.

Delta Reserve cardholders are allowed up to 15 Delta Sky Club visits per year (or unlimited visits after spending $75,000 in a calendar year). I find it easy to track my visits using the Delta app, and with Centurion Lounge access being unlimited (as long as I purchase my Delta flight with the Reserve Card), I have ample opportunities to enjoy these lounges.

Beyond lounge access, the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card offers several other perks, including a free first checked bag for me and up to eight passengers traveling with me. This benefit is particularly useful when traveling with my husband and three kids, as it significantly reduces our overall travel costs. The card also provides priority boarding and discounts on in-flight purchases and award redemptions. Furthermore, I receive a statement credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, ensuring a seamless airport experience.

Currently, new cardmembers can earn 125,000 bonus miles after spending $6,000 on eligible purchases within the first six months. This offer is available until October 29. Given that Delta SkyMiles are valued at approximately 1.2 cents each, this bonus translates to a remarkable $1,500 in travel value. While the card does come with an annual fee of $650, the benefits far outweigh the costs for a frequent flyer.

After earning the bonus, I was able to redeem miles for positioning flights for a memorable trip to Belgium and Germany with my husband. Later, I used some of my miles to take my entire family to Disneyland, demonstrating how the welcome bonus can significantly offset travel expenses.

In recent updates, Delta has introduced monthly and annual statement credits for its cobranded cards, including the Delta Reserve Amex. Although tracking these credits can be a bit of a hassle, I make it a point to log them in a spreadsheet to maximize my card’s value. One of the easiest credits to use is the up to $10 monthly ride-hailing statement credit, which I utilize frequently for rides with Lyft or Uber.

Additionally, I benefit from up to $200 in Delta Stays credits each year, which can be applied to eligible hotel stays booked through the Delta Stays website. Since my husband travels regularly for work, we have many opportunities to take advantage of this offer.

The card also provides up to $20 in monthly statement credits for dining at select U.S. Resy restaurants. While there aren’t many eligible restaurants in my area, I’ve found creative ways to use this credit, such as purchasing gift cards for qualifying restaurants.

When it comes to redeeming Delta SkyMiles, I’ve been impressed with the variety of options available. You can use your miles for Delta flights as well as flights on partner airlines like Air France, Korean Air, Virgin Atlantic, and WestJet, expanding your travel possibilities. Moreover, Delta’s user-friendly interface displays award pricing clearly, making it easy to find the best deals.

Another fantastic benefit of the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card is the 15% discount on award flights, allowing me to stretch my miles even further. Plus, I receive an annual companion certificate after my account anniversary, which is valid for one round-trip ticket within the U.S. and select destinations in Central America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. This certificate enables me to bring a companion along for free, only paying the taxes and fees on the second ticket.

I’ve already utilized my companion certificate to take my son to New York before heading to Paris, and recently, I used it to fly my husband with me to Disney World for a runDisney race.

For someone relatively new to the world of points and miles, applying for the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card was an easy decision. While it may not be the highest points earner, its straightforward earning structure and unmatched perks for Delta flyers make it a valuable addition to my wallet. With the current best-ever welcome offer of 125,000 Delta SkyMiles, now is an excellent time to apply.

To learn more about the benefits of the Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card and how it can enhance your travel experience, consider reading our full review.

If you’re ready to unlock these exceptional travel benefits, apply for the Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card today.